Cinéma en Plein Air - La Villette

The Cinéma en Plein Air de La Villette: Over Thirty Years of Screenings Under the Stars

Since its creation in 1992, the Cinéma en Plein Air de La Villette has been one of Paris's most iconic free cultural events. Every summer, for nearly a month, the Triangle meadow in Parc de la Villette, located in the 19th arrondissement, hosts thousands of spectators on its lawns for free open-air screenings.

The concept has become a Parisian ritual: spectators arrive in the late afternoon, settle on blankets or deckchairs (available for rent), unpack their picnics, and enjoy the summer evening before nightfall and the start of the screening. With over 1,200 films screened across thirty-three editions, the Cinéma en Plein Air de La Villette has introduced or reintroduced generations of Parisians and visitors to world cinema classics and gems.

An Original Theme Each Year

Each edition is built around an original theme that guides the film selection. From "Dreams of the East" to "Bodies and Harmony," from "Journeys" to "Metamorphoses," these themes create a common thread between the various screenings and offer the public a coherent and surprising cinematic journey, blending popular films, heritage classics, and discoveries.

Films in Original Version with Subtitles

All films are screened in original version with subtitles, except for animated films intended for young audiences, which are shown in French. This commitment to quality contributes to the festival's identity and the loyalty of its cinephile audience.

A Popular and Family-Friendly Event

The Cinéma en Plein Air de La Villette is a resolutely popular and family-friendly event. Access is completely free, with no reservations required, subject to availability. Screenings dedicated to young audiences are scheduled in the early evening, featuring animated films or programs suitable for children. In 2025, the festival innovated by offering two screenings per day: one at 6 PM for young children and another at 9 PM for older audiences.

Parc de la Villette: An Exceptional Setting

The Parc de la Villette, one of Paris's largest green spaces at 55 hectares, provides an ideal setting for this event. The Triangle meadow, a vast expanse of lawn bordered by the Canal de l'Ourcq, can accommodate several thousand spectators in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The park also offers numerous cultural and leisure activities throughout the summer.